Operations Manager - Sports Facilities

Placements24; Vereeniging; On-site; ZAR 700,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Retirement contributions

Professional development

Performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Operations Manager in Vereeniging, Gauteng, to oversee daily operations of multiple sports facilities. The role requires leading facility staff, coordinating maintenance, managing event logistics, and ensuring safety and efficiency across venues.

The successful candidate will have strong leadership, budgeting, and customer service skills, with a background in sports or leisure facility management and a focus on safety compliance and high-quality user

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required in Facility Management, Sports Management, Business Administration or related field.
• 4–6 years of experience in facility operations management, preferably in sports/leisure.
• Proven ability to manage staff, budgets, and processes.
• Strong health, safety and security knowledge for public facilities.
• Excellent leadership, communication and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations of multiple sports facilities including fields, courts, gyms and event spaces.
• Supervise and schedule facility staff and maintenance crews.
• Develop and implement maintenance plans to keep facilities clean and safe.
• Coordinate setup/breakdown for events, tournaments and community functions.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety and security regulations and policies.
• Manage inventory and vendor relationships; liaise with contractors and service providers.
• Monitor budgets, control expenses, and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Respond to operational issues and customer complaints promptly and effectively.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Customer service

Problem solving

Communication

Staff management

Education

Bachelor's degree in Facility Management

Sports Management

Business Administration

Tools

MS Office

Facility management software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading provider of sports and recreational facilities in Vereeniging, Gauteng , is looking for a highly organized and experienced Operations Manager. This critical role involves overseeing the daily operations of multiple sports venues, ensuring they are maintained to the highest standards, safe for users, and run efficiently. You will manage a team of facility staff, coordinate maintenance schedules, handle event logistics, and ensure compliance with all health and safety regulations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in facility management, operational efficiency, and customer service within the sports or leisure industry. This position requires excellent leadership, problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage budgets effectively. You will play a key role in maintaining the reputation of these facilities and ensuring a positive experience for all patrons in Vereeniging .

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate the daily operations of various sports facilities, including fields, courts, gyms, and event spaces.
• Supervise, train, and schedule facility staff, including maintenance crews, event support, and front desk personnel.
• Develop and implement robust maintenance plans to ensure all facilities are clean, safe, and well-maintained.
• Oversee the setup and breakdown of facilities for various sporting events, tournaments, and community functions.
• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and security regulations and protocols.
• Manage inventory of supplies and equipment, ensuring adequate stock levels.
• Respond to and resolve operational issues, emergencies, and customer complaints in a timely and effective manner.
• Develop and manage operational budgets, controlling expenses and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Liaise with external vendors, contractors, and service providers.
• Implement and enforce facility usage policies and procedures.
• Contribute to the planning and execution of new facility initiatives and improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Facility Management, Sports Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4-6 years of experience in facility operations management, preferably within the sports or leisure industry.
• Proven experience in managing staff, budgets, and operational processes.
• Strong understanding of health, safety, and security protocols for public facilities.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated problem-solving abilities and decision-making capabilities.Proficiency in MS Office Suite and facility management software.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required by facility demands in Vereeniging, Gauteng .
• Knowledge of sports rules and regulations is an advantage.
• First Aid and CPR certification is preferred.

Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance and retirement contributions.
• Opportunity to manage key sports infrastructure in Vereeniging .
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Potential for performance-based bonuses.
• Work in a dynamic and active environment.
• Make a significant impact on the local sports community.